1 Thessalonians 3

1 For that reason when we could not wait any longer, we thought it best to be left behind at Athens, alone;

2 And sent Timothy, our brother, and minister of God, and our fellow laborer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you concerning the faith (of our Lord Jesus):

3 So that no man should be moved by the tribulations (and afflictions that will come): for you yourselves know that we are destined to encounter (tribulations in this world).

4 For indeed, we told you beforehand, when we were with you, that we were about to suffer tribulation; just as it came to pass, as you know.

5 For this reason, when I could not wait any longer, I sent (Timothy) to know your faith (was established), lest by some means the tempter might have tempted you (to take up the care for your own life), and our labor be in vain.

6 But now when Timothy came from you back to us, and brought us the good report of your faith and love (abounding), and that you have good remembrance of us always, desiring greatly to see us, as we also are to see you:

7 Therefore, brethren, we were comforted (and encouraged in the Lord) concerning you in (the midst of) all our affliction and distress by (seeing what) the faith (has done) in you:

8 For now we live (in the midst of tribulation being ourselves strengthen by the faith of Jesus Christ), (as will you) if you stand fast in (the faith of the Lord (Jesus).

9 For what (other) thanks can we render to God for you again, (in return) for all the joy by which we joy for your sakes before our God (and Father who saves us to the uttermost),

10 Praying exceedingly night and day that we might see your faces (again), so that we might perfect anything lacking in your faith?
 

11 Now God Himself and our Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ, direct our way back to you.

12 And the Lord (Himself) make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you: